Vaccine gaps fuel Bangladesh's deadly measles crisis

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DHAKA: Bangladesh is grappling with its most severe measles outbreak in years, with health experts warning that significant vaccination gaps and widespread malnutrition are driving a surge in fatalities. As of early April, the death toll has surpassed 100 children, with thousands of confirmed cases across major districts including Dhaka, Mymensingh, and Chattogram.

The crisis stems from a sharp decline in immunization coverage. Health officials noted that no nationwide measles-rubella campaign has been conducted since 2020, leading to a dangerous buildup of unvaccinated infants. Stockpiles of essential vaccines at central storage facilities have reportedly been depleted, while a shortage of field-level health workers has further hampered routine programs.

In response, the government has partnered with the United Nations to launch an emergency vaccination drive targeting children aged six months to five years in high-risk areas. 

With measles being one of the world's most contagious diseases capable of infecting up to 18 people from a single case, authorities are racing to reach a 95% vaccination threshold to stop the transmission and prevent further loss of life.